Bolland practices, not yet cleared to play for Hawks

On the eve of the season finale, the Chicago Blackhawks' postseason hopes may have received another boost.

Center Dave Bolland, out since taking an elbow to the head March 9, took part in a brief 15-minute workout at Johnny's Ice House West on Saturday. He was not made available to the media afterward, but Hawks coach Joel Quenneville again sounded cautiously optimistic.

"He looked all right," Quenneville said. "He's still not cleared for contact, but he's made real good progress over the last three or four days. We'll continue to see how he's progressing and hopefully he keeps progressing on a rapid rate."

Bolland first returned to the ice Friday while the Hawks were in Detroit, securing a 4-2 win over the Red Wings. He has been out since suffering the concussion in Tampa on March 9 but could provide the Hawks a critical defensive presence if he is able to contribute in the postseason.

The Hawks' playoff fortunes come down to a Sunday season finale matinee against the Red Wings. Garnering at least one point would clinch a spot for the defending Stanley Cup champions.

One-timers: Patrick Sharp and Tomas Kopecky both sat out Saturday's practice. Sharp rested his addled knee and Kopecky took a puck to the head Friday night, but Quenneville listed the pair as "both fine."... Troy Brouwer, however, appears no closer to returning after suffering an apparent shoulder injury last week. "He's status quo," Quenneville said. "His progress is still day to day. We'll get a better idea if we get to see him on the ice, but he's not close to that right now."